Over 20 current and former staff members have reported several animal deaths to 1News, some of which had not previously been disclosed.

The Christchurch City Council has pledged $1.5 million in funding for the wildlife park over three years.

When asked if this funding was under threat following the allegations, Acting Head of Community Support and Partnerships Matt McLintock told chrislynchmedia.com, “The management of Orana Wildlife Park, including HR matters, rests with the board of Orana Wildlife Park.

“When concerns were raised with us, we immediately notified the board that our expectation was that they would take the appropriate action.”

He added, “Not directly related to this matter, the Council has committed to provide funding to Orana Wildlife Park to enable them to undertake an independent review of their financial model. We will release that funding when we are satisfied with the terms of reference.”